photo; PNP
Anti-narcotics agents of the Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested two policemen and their three alleged cohorts following a buy-bust in Taguig City on Saturday, March 7.
Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said the two policemen are assigned to the Taguig City Police Station and were collared after they were among those who yielded around P680,000 worth of shabu in the buy-bust in Barangay Western Bicutan.
Operatives of the PNP-Drug Enforcement Group Special Operations Unit National Capital Region, led by Police Lt Col. Christopher Navida, carried out the operation after a transaction was negotiated for the sale of around 100 grams of shabu.
He said the arrest was announced after the marked money was accepted. It was during the verification when PDEG operatives found out that two of those they arrested are policemen with a rank of Police Corporal.
Aside from the shabu, also seized were the buy-bust money, two PNP-issued guns, four magazines loaded with live ammunition, two motorcycles, and several personal items believed to be connected to the illegal drug activity.
The five arrested suspects are under PDEG custody and facing charges of violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The City of Taguig condemned the involvement of police personnel assigned in the city, reiterating that it maintains zero tolerance for illegal drugs and any form of misconduct in law enforcement.
Mayor Lani Cayetano said the incident reinforces the importance of efforts to keep law enforcement institutions accountable and trustworthy, noting that she has long urged authorities to ensure that the police force remains disciplined and free from illegal activities:
“Illegal drugs have no place in Taguig. Those who are sworn to enforce the law must be held to the highest standards,” said Cayetano.
“We commend the Philippine National Police for taking strong action. Efforts to cleanse the ranks are essential to maintaining the public’s trust. The people of Taguig deserve law enforcers who uphold integrity, professionalism, and the rule of law,” she added.
For his part, PDEG director Brig. Gen. Elmer Ragay lauded his men for the successful operation, “This demonstrates the professionalism and integrity of our Drug Enforcement Group personnel. Our campaign against illegal drugs will continue to be carried out firmly and without exception.”